It’s no breaking news KTM has an assortment of motorcycles in the works. Right from a new RC 990 to a bigger-than-ever Super Duke, several test mules have already been spotted, only to reveal plenty of information about these. And if you think this is all, you clearly don’t know Team Orange.
We say this because spy shots of the new Super Adventure have surfaced on the internet a few times, confirming a big update is in store. It does come as a bit of a surprise (since the motorcycle underwent a sizable update just in 2021), but hey, we’re not one to complain about new bikes. So, here’s what you should know.
The 2024 KTM Super Adventure Looks More Aggressive, Just Like The Upcoming Super Duke
The first thing that catches the eye about the new ADV is the jacked-up design. Gone is its split fascia and in comes an angrier headlight assembly. It comprises big, boomerang-like LED DRLs on the sides, paired with a projector in the middle. This is reminiscent of the new Super Duke’s aesthetic, and for good reason, as the two have always had similar fascias.
In addition, you get new angular fairings. These have more cuts and creases than the current model, alongside bigger openings to channel air toward the engine. Another noteworthy detail is the repositioned front radar, now situated under the headlight rather than embedded between it. We can also see two auxiliary lights mounted on the fairings, probably there for a ‘cornering light’ function. It could be sold as an accessory, though.
All this while, the latter end of the motorcycle isn’t all that different. You get similar tail panels and grab rails to the 2023 model, complete with the same LED. The latter feels a tad boring as the new Super Duke will switch to a sleeker setup without a dedicated brake light. Instead, it’ll go the BMW way with three-in-one turn indicators.
The 2024 KTM Super Adventure Could Have Three Variants
Currently, the Super Adventure comes in two trims - S and R. The S focuses on road duties, evident from its alloys, 19-inch front wheel, and lack of crash protection. Whereas, the R is for hooning around in trails, thanks to its spoke wheels and a 21-incher up top.
These will remain the same for the new model too, as both trims have been spotted testing already. But the surprise will be a third model that will serve duty as an elder sibling of the 890 SMT revealed earlier. KTM is already testing the motorcycle and its spy shots revealed some stark differences from the ADV. We’re talking 17-inch wheels, Brembo Stylema brakes, and a sportier tail end. These will make it a Ducati Multistrada Pikes Peak and BMW S 1000 XR rival.
The 2024 KTM Super Adventure Might Boast A Near 1,400cc Engine
Did you notice we’ve skipped the ‘1290’ from the motorcycle’s name? Well, that’s because KTM has two options here. First, the Super Adventure could retain its 1,301cc, twin-cylinder engine that gushes out 158 horsepower and 101 pound-feet. The exhaust and headers of the test mules match the current model, only to cement the idea.
Second, and the popular but harder to achieve idea, is that the ADV will ditch the existing mill in favor of KTM’s new ‘1390’ twin set for debut on the new Super Duke. Official leaked documents have already confirmed this engine is ready, not just for production but also to go on sale as an OEM component. If number two is true, the Super Adventure will probably gain a few ponies to edge closer to the Ducati Multistrada V4’s 170-horsepower figure. It already has more power than the upcoming 143-HP BMW R 1300 GS, so no problems there.
Unlike the engine, not much will change in the underpinnings department. The WP forks, Brembo radial calipers, and trellis chassis all appear unchanged on the test mules. Same goes for the technology, as the ADV already has all class-leading bits like radar, semi-active suspension, a plethora of rider aids, and a gigantic TFT. If it ain’t broke, why fix it?
When Will The New KTM Super Adventure Debut?
We expect the KTM Super Adventure to debut as a 2024 model, either at the 2023 EICMA in November or the first half of the next year. The former could be the case if the ADV will continue to feature its existing engine, whereas the latter is probable if there’s a 1390 Super Adventure incoming. After all, the new engine would require more testing and fine-tuning, just like the Super Duke’s case. To jog your memory, the updated naked was first spied in mid-2022 and KTM still hasn’t taken the wraps off it.